Eliminate uncertainty in current Land redistribution

Thank you Mr. President. The ongoing land redistribution exercise in the Eastern Province is commendable. The government has done the needful of redistributing land amongst people.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Thank you Mr. President. The ongoing land redistribution exercise in the Eastern Province is commendable. The government has done the needful of redistributing land amongst people.

The poor probably have been rescued in this province.  It is however my sincere wish and hope that the exercise goes on with a fore sighted view and for long term benefits for all.

There have been numerous debates about the exercise and I have listened to different views in different fora. The question is the fate of those who actually acquired loans from financial institutions to purchase the land in question.

My understanding is that the buying and selling of this land was going on with full knowledge of concerned authority and 6% of the purchase price went to government coffers and in some instances the purchaser was issued with a document ascertaining that she/he owned land.

I wonder if the process one undergoes to buy land in Eastern province is the same as buying plots in Nyarutarama, Kagarama, Kibagabaga or Kacuriro. 

What difference does it make if for one to buy land from Kimironko and another one in Eastern Province? 

This poses a threat for current plot buyers.  It is very difficult for citizens to plan in such uncertain circumstances. 

Indeed, those who advise us about investment always single out one important factor that discourages investment which is uncertain environment. 

Kigali